Why I Kicked Out Secondus as PDP National Chairman – Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has shed light on the reasons behind his pivotal role in the removal of Prince Uche Secondus as National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking at a Thanksgiving service organized by PDP stakeholders in Ahoada East and West, Rivers State, Wike stated, “I kicked him out for plotting to make his cousin, Tele Ikuru, governor of Rivers State, instead of Siminialayi Fubara.”

Wike emphasized his commitment to ensuring that the governorship slot was zoned to the lowland area of Rivers, where Fubara hails from. Reflecting on the political dynamics, Wike criticized those now allied with Fubara, including Secondus, as opportunists. “Those who opposed Fubara’s ambition are now wining and dining with him, while those who worked for his success are labeled enemies,” he remarked.

He also dismissed comments by PDP chieftain Celestine Omehia, who accused him of not attracting development to Rivers State as FCT minister. Wike clarified that his role does not allow him to allocate resources to his home state but noted that during his tenure as Minister of State for Education, he secured significant projects for Rivers, including the Faculty of Law at Rivers University and grants for various educational institutions.

The minister further highlighted his influence in securing numerous federal appointments for Rivers State under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. “No governor has attracted more appointments for Rivers people than me,” he asserted, underscoring his ongoing commitment to his state’s welfare.

Wike also defended his controversial stance on land policies in Abuja, vowing to continue enforcing regulations despite criticism. “People think that because past administrations ignored the rules, they can remain unchecked. But under this Renewed Hope agenda, we will enforce what is right,” he stated.

He dismissed allegations of land grabbing, asserting his authority as the minister in charge of Abuja lands. “You can’t grab what you are in charge of. The real grabbers are those we’re dealing with,” Wike said, adding that his focus is on upholding the integrity of FCT policies.

The Thanksgiving service saw the attendance of prominent figures, including former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives Kingsley Chinda, and APC Rivers Chairman Tony Okocha. Traditional and political leaders, including PDP and APC members, also participated.

Wike took the opportunity to praise the unity between the PDP and APC in Rivers State, commending leaders like Tony Okocha for their support. He also criticized traditional rulers and clergy members whom he accused of ingratitude despite receiving significant benefits during his tenure as governor.

The former governor reflected on his administration’s achievements, particularly in Ekpeye Kingdom, where he elevated traditional stools to first-class status and executed several infrastructure projects. He dismissed recent endorsements of Governor Fubara’s second term by traditional rulers, questioning their credibility.

Wike urged Rivers people to remain steadfast, assuring them that the current political challenges would pass. He expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and called on the people to continue supporting the administration.

The event chairman, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, and other speakers lauded Wike for his contributions to Rivers and his transformative work in Abuja. They emphasized the importance of gratitude and expressed hope for reclaiming Rivers State politically in the future.

Wike concluded by reaffirming his commitment to his principles and his focus on delivering results, regardless of opposition or propaganda. “My interest is doing what is right, and even if heaven comes, I will still do it,” he said.